If you are grade 6-8 or above, then this is the orchestra for you!

Maestro courses run for 3 days during the Christmas holidays and 4 days in the summer. Maestro courses are not run at Easter due to the age of the players meaning that many will be preparing for GCSEs or A-levels at this time.

Clarinettists applying for Maestro must be able to bring with them clarinets in both Bb and A. Because the repertoire is predominantly classical, and because this orchestra always plays from original scores rather than arrangements, Maestro does not offer places for recorders or saxophones as first instruments. However, sometimes chosen repertoire means that clarinettists that also play saxophone may have the opportunity to do so.

Music played by Maestro is typical of symphony orchestras and covers music from all periods and a variety of styles. Examples of music played on previous courses includes Prokofiev’s ‘Montagues and Capulets’ from Romeo and Juliet, Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, Marquez’s Danzon no.2, Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8, 1st Movt., Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, Tchaikovsky’s Capriccio Italiene, and Vaughan-Williams’ Overture to The Wasps.

We also invite applications to play in Maestro from University student-age support players (18-21). These participants play a supportive role within their sections, supporting their peers and aiding tutors where necessary. If you would like more information, drop us an email at yorchestracourses@gmail.com or apply through our applications page.